Asbestos

News about asbestos, including commentary and archival articles published in The New York Times.

Chronology of Coverage

Feb. 10, 2015

Research showing alarmingly high levels of asbestos in southern Nevada terrain, product of commercial development and naturally occurring materials, has led to health warnings from scientists and pushback from state officials; scientists say that officials have tried to stifle report's findings. MORE

Jan. 14, 2014

Joe Nocera Op-ed column praises federal bankruptcy Judge George Hodges's decision exposing underhanded tactics by law firms seeking asbestos damages; says ruling could be a potential game-changer in endless stream of lawsuits; examines details of case involving Garlock, rare company that fought back against charges that its products had been a primary cause of mesothelioma. MORE

Dec. 3, 2013

Joe Nocera Op-Ed column expresses skepticism concerning Rep Carolyn McCarthy's claim that her lung cancer was caused by asbestos poisoning, despite fact that she was a lifelong smoker; points out growing number of similar claims, since it is harder to sue tobacco companies; holds preponderance of asbestos litigation illustrates fraudulence of the class-action lawsuit industry. MORE

Jul. 14, 2013

Asbestos mining remains big industry in Russia, where use of the carcinogenic substance is still common, and economies of towns like Asbest, in Ural Mountains, are completely dependent on such mines. MORE

Jul. 1, 2013

Letter from Reps Bob Goodlatte and Blake Farenthold comments on June 20 editorial on bill addressing asbestos claims. MORE

Jun. 20, 2013

Editorial urges Congress to commission objective study of bill that would make it harder for plaintiffs injured by asbestos to get fair compensation; questions whether there is significant fraud in such claims to make this bill necessary. MORE